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Hi ladies! I’m so glad you’re joining me for this 13-week journey through the book of Nehemiah.

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Do you deserve to be happy? Well, if you ask the world, the answer is a loud and enthusiastic yes.

Social media is flooded with the message. In fact, the phrase #YouDeserveToBeHappy has been used in over 53,000 posts on Instagram alone. It’s become a rally cry—one of the most popular mantras of our time. It’s spread across the internet, plastered on magazine covers, printed on everything from coffee mugs to canvas art. And let’s be honest, it sounds good. It feels good. It promises relief, reward, and a little bit of justification.

But here’s the question we’ve got to ask ourselves: Is what I deserve always what I need?

Sometimes, the answer is no.

As we open our Bibles to Nehemiah chapter 5, we discover a shift. Up until now, Nehemiah has faced opposition from outside. But here, the challenge comes from within—from injustice and self-interest among God’s own people. And it’s in the middle of this tension that Nehemiah models something extraordinary: restraint. Humility. Conviction. He doesn’t use his position to elevate himself. He doesn’t claim what he could have. Instead, he lays it down for the good of others—and for the honor of God.

As governor, Nehemiah had the right to collect a generous allowance. No one would have questioned it. He earned it. But he didn’t take it. Not because it was sinful, but because it wasn’t helpful. He feared God more than he loved comfort. He cared more about honoring the people than elevating himself. And that choice—that act of restraint—was integrity in action.

Now, let’s bring that home.

Maybe you’re neck-deep in an argument, and you know—you know—you’re right. You’ve got every reason to push back, to lay out the facts, to prove your point. But instead of grabbing your gavel, you choose peace. You let the moment pass. Not because you lost your voice, but because you’ve chosen wisdom over pride.

Or maybe someone’s hurt you. Deeply. They’ve misrepresented you, talked about you, maybe even betrayed you. You could clear your name. You could put them in their place. But you don’t. You hand it to God and let Him be your defender. That’s not weakness—that’s strength under control.

Maybe you’re exhausted. You’ve served everyone all day long, and the last thing you want is one more demand. But then someone needs help. And instead of protecting your comfort, you offer your time. Quietly. Graciously. Not because you feel guilty—but because you’ve been filled by grace, and now it overflows.

The Bible tells us, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” —Philippians 2:3–4 (NIV)

That’s what integrity looks like. It’s not loud. It’s not flashy. It’s found in the small decisions—when no one’s watching and there’s nothing to gain. Like continuing to show up when no one notices. Giving generously when no one expects it. Saying yes to compassion, even when it’s inconvenient.

And sometimes, it’s saying no—not to people, but to yourself. No to the upgrade. No to the impulse. No to what you want right now so you can say yes to what God is shaping in you.

The world says you deserve to be happy. And maybe, in some ways, you do. But happiness isn’t the highest goal—holiness is. And sometimes, choosing holiness means walking away from something that feels right, because deep down, you know it isn’t.

Week at a Glance 

Would you like a printable copy of this schedule? If so, click here.

A Note About Journaling
As you move through this study, consider keeping a personal journal nearby. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a simple notebook where you can jot down your prayers, reflections, and anything the Lord impresses on your heart. This is your space to write freely, revisit lessons, and record your own journey of restoration.

TUESDAY

Visit Time-Warp Wife –Visit timewarpwife.com to find this week’s intro post and a link to the video.

Read Nehemiah 5:1–8 – Reflect on the injustice Nehemiah confronted & his heart for redemption.

Read the Study Guide – Consider how Nehemiah’s actions align with the sacrificial love of Christ.

Begin Study Guide Questions – Focus on forgiveness, redemption, and how grace releases us from the weight of debt.

Journaling Prompt – Is there any “debt” you’re holding onto—hurt, bitterness, or unmet expectations?

WEDNESDAY

Read Nehemiah 5:9–13 – Notice the people’s response and their willingness to make things right.

Reflection Question – Can you recall a time when you felt true conviction? How did you respond?

Share in the group –  What does true repentance look like to you? Is there a moment when you saw it clearly in your life or someone else’s?

THURSDAY

Read Nehemiah 5:14–19 – Pay attention to Nehemiah’s leadership and self-control.

Read John 14:26 and John 16:7–8 – What does this teach about the Holy Spirit’s role in our lives?

Continue the Study Guide – Consider how conviction leads to repentance and change.

FRIDAY

Wrap Up the Study Guide – Review lessons from Nehemiah’s leadership.

Reflect – What stands out most to you this week: conviction, compassion, or action?

Closing Journal Prompt – Where do you see God calling you to lead with love and mercy?

Read Darlene’s Closing Thoughts – Visit the blog or check your inbox for the weekly encouragement.

SATURDAY

Additional Reading – Look up the stories of Zacchaeus, the Prodigal Son, David, Nineveh, Peter, and Paul.

Fill in the Prompt – What action did they take that proved their repentance?

SUNDAY – No assignments today. Let today be a day of spiritual renewal.

MONDAY

Wrap-Up Reflection – What impacted you most from this chapter?

Share in the group – What did God reveal to you through Nehemiah 5?

This Week’s Challenge

Is there someone you need to forgive, bless, or a relationship you need to restore? Take a step toward reconciliation this week—whether it’s a phone call, an apology, or a small act of kindness. Let your faith move you beyond words into action, reflecting the love, justice, and mercy God has shown you.

This Week’s Bible Verse

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